The San Francisco 49ers returned to practice Wednesday with a lengthy injury list as they prepare for Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While some absences were expected veteran rest days, several key starters continue to battle lingering injuries that could impact the Week 6 lineup.

Did Not Practice (DNP)

Quarterback Brock Purdy remained sidelined as he continues to recover from a toe injury that forced him to miss last week’s win over the Rams. Head coach Kyle Shanahan reiterated that the team won’t rush Purdy back until he’s close to full strength, leaving Mac Jones as the likely starter again this weekend. Jones has been playing well and currently has led the team to 3-0, there should be no rush to get Purdy back, unless something changes here.

The 49ers’ receiving corps remains thin as Ricky Pearsall (knee), Jauan Jennings (ribs/ankle), and Jordan Watkins (calf) all sat out Wednesday. The team has leaned heavily on Kendrick Bourne, Demarcus Robinson and Skyy Moore in recent weeks, and that will likely continue to be the case deep into the season.

Defensively, the DNP list included several key front-seven contributors. Defensive end Robert Beal (ankle), defensive tackles Alfred Collins (knee) and Yetur Gross-Matos (knee/hamstring) were all held out. With Nick Bosa already lost for the year, San Francisco’s depth along the defensive line is being tested early.

On the brighter side, Trent Williams and Christian McCaffrey were both listed as “vet days,” indicating planned rest rather than injury-related absences. They need all the rest they can get carrying this 49ers offense on their backs. 

Limited Participants

Quarterback Mac Jones (knee/oblique) was limited, though he’s expected to start Sunday barring any setbacks. Jones, who has led the 49ers to three wins in three starts, has been playing through soreness but remains confident in his availability.

The defensive front continues to be a focal point of concern, with CJ West (thumb), Kevin Givens (pec) and Kalia Davis (hand) all limited in practice. Cornerback Upton Stout (ankle) was also limited, though the rookie has been trending in the right direction.

With multiple starters nursing injuries, the 49ers’ depth could again be the difference heading into Sunday. Shanahan’s squad has proven resilient through attrition all season, leaning on young defenders like Alfred Collins and Mykel Williams to fill major roles. If Jones stays sharp and McCaffrey’s legs stay fresh, San Francisco should still have enough firepower to handle Tampa Bay and keep momentum alive, even as the injury report grows longer each week.